Our sector has a strong history of developing young people who love working with plants and building their skills and knowledge. We are working with our members, industry partners, tertiary providers and the Government to reignite the training programmes and qualifications that have been so important to our sector.
With about 4000 people employed in our sector and many unfilled jobs, there are plenty of opportunities for people to join our industry and pursue an exciting and rewarding career.
We work with other primary organisations to identify the best structures for horticultural vocational eduction.
This work includes:
- Advocating for industry qualifications to ensure that they are relevant
- Promoting free apprenticeships and scholarships
- Supporting our emerging leaders on a strong career path.
The Young Plant Producer competition recognises the best young people in our sector and enables them to take the next step in their personal and career development.
The two-day event pushes entrants to learn valuable new skills, gives them exceptional networking opportunities with industry leaders, and a boost to their careers. Each year our Young Plant Producer joins the winners of other horticulture industry competitions in the Young Horticulturalist of the Year.
Check out the Young Plant Producer website for more information and how and when to enter.
In July 2022, we announced the establishment of the Carol Fraser Industry Training Award (Fraser Award) in memory of Carol Fraser who founded Growing Spectrum with her husband Peter. Carol, who played an extremely active role in industry training and the professional development of plant producers.
This (now) biennial scholarship continues Carol’s educational legacy through its support of those outstanding individuals who have a passion for plants, for training and education, and for our industry. It is open to the wider industry, not just people working in nurseries but also those working in plant science or technology. The award is open to individuals enrolled in or recently completed training and education related to plant production, the award is a fantastic opportunity for emerging young leaders. The next award is available in 2026.
2024 Winner: Paige Bewster, Norfolk Rd Nursery
With five years' of experience in the industry and currently completing an apprenticeship in nursery production, Paige showed a deep passion and extensive knowledge in the propagation and botany of native species. Her significant contributions have earned her respect within the conservation community and among customers. Paige is stepping into a leadership role, mentoring and teaching others, and she use the scholarship to further her education and development.
2023 Winner, Alice Buschl,of Waimea Nurseries
Alice is a graduate of the Fruition Level 6 Diploma in Horticulture Production and oversees the commercial crops grown in the Container Nursery at Waimea Nurseries. She will use her scholarship award to do the Prince2 Project Management Course. "I am excited to learn about project management and use these new skills alongside my Horticultural skills to enhance my overall growth." The 2023 award was donated by Apex Greenhouses, NZPPI and the Fraser family.
2022 Inaugural Winner, Dani McBride of Rural Design
Dani was our inaugural Fraser Award winner. Read all about her career in our Spotlight On series.
The Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme has been specifically designed for the food and fibre sector.
The programme develops food and fibre sector leaders with the skills, confidence, awareness, and networks to think and act strategically. It is for farmers, foresters, fishers, producers, growers, and agri-professionals who have a desire to contribute to their rural community, food and fibre production, processing, or profession.
To apply, or for more information, visit the website or email kellogg@ruralleaders.co.nz.
LATEST
Young Plant Producer 2025 applications open today - March 10
Encourage your young stars to shine! 🌱✨ This year's competition takes place at Lincoln University on June 24th & 25th so encourage your younger team members to apply by March 31. If they’re 30 or under by December 31, 2025, and working in the plant production industry, they’re eligible to enter.
A new direction for vocational education: Industry Skills Boards announced
Last year, NZPPI contributed to the consultation process on the Government’s proposed reforms to New Zealand’s vocational education and training system. On 20 December 2024, the Government revealed its plans, marking a significant shift in how vocational training will be structured.
Our 2023 Young Plant Producer Lydia O'Dowd recounts her international work travels
Lydia used her YPP and Young Hort winnings to visit overseas plant production operations and build on her horticultural knowledge.
Fraser Award winner: Paige Brewster
Paige Brewster from Norfork Rd Nursery in Wairarapa received the 2024 Fraser Award.
Government champions women in horticulture with new support initiatives
An initiative that supports networking and career progression of women in horticulture has received state funding.
Scholarships available: check if you or your team members are eligible
The Horticulture and Agriculture Teachers Association (HATA) has put together a list of scholarships available in the food and fibre sectors.
MPI scholarships available
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is expanding a scholarship programme for tertiary students as part of its efforts to boost on-the-ground support for farmers, producers and growers.
We have our Young Plant Producer 2024!
Anna England from Amberley has been named as the 2024 Young Plant Producer of the Year.
Proposed new BSc Major in Horticultural and Plant Sciences: signatures needed
Researchers at Lincoln University have proposed a new Horticultural and Plant Science Major (Bachelor of Science). The next stage in the process of approving the qualification is gathering endorsement signatures to support the business case.
Working Holiday Schemes reopening
​The 2023 reopening dates for capped Working Holiday Schemes have now been confirmed by Immigration New Zealand.
Conference workshop 2: Leadership transformation
Experienced primary industry leadership coach, Sue Pickering, brought her deep knowledge and inspiration to this workshop to help attendees understand that sticking to a traditional leadership style doesn’t work anymore.
Zealandia Horticulture embracing Secondary School Employer Partnership (SSEP)
Zealandia Horticulture is working with Christchurch students to promote plant production.
Immigration update: new websites and employer webinar
Immigration New Zealand has relaunched its website to attract migrants plus has a webinar this Friday on Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) job check requirements
Muka Tangata Hui
Muka Tanagata, the Workforce Development Council for People, Food, and Fibre, has heard insights on the needs of the plant production sector. NZPPI People Capability Advisor Alice Schofield recently attended a hui hosted by Muka Tanagata as part of its discovery of ways to enhance vocational education.
Students Lining up for Horticulture
Last month Matt Dolan had the privilege to present at the Horticulture Agriculture Teachers Association (HATA) Conference in Motueka, where he learned that after decades of declining student numbers, horticulture classes are again filling up.
Business Central's Payroll Bootcamp Available to all NZPPI Members
Business Central has put together a Payroll Bootcamp, starting 11th May 2021, updating you on changes to payroll legislation. All NZPPI members can take advantage of their member discount price, courtesy of our affiliation with the EMA.
Skilled Newcomers program connecting you with skilled talent
Business Central has an awesome initiative, creating ease for employers when looking for the right candidates for their company.
2021 Primary Industries Good Employer Awards opens for entries
Entries are open for the 2021 Primary Industries Good Employer Awards. The awards celebrate primary sector employers who demonstrate exceptional employment practices.
Skills Shortages
The closure of NZ’s borders due to Covid-19 means that there will be lack of overseas workers – especially in high skill areas, like propagation.
Join NZ Plant Producers at Grow ĹŚtautahi Christchurch Garden Festival, 12-14 March
Grow ĹŚtautahi Christchurch Garden Festival is a vibrant, contemporary garden festival